Moncove Lake State Park: Plan a Lake Day
A lake day can be as simple as a picnic and a short walk, or become an overnight camping trip. Moncove Lake State Park is in Gap Mills, outside Union, and suits visitors who want to make outdoor time the main event rather than squeeze it between other stops.
Location and contact
695 Moncove Lake Access Road, Gap Mills, WV 24941
304-772-3450
Official park information and reservations
What you can do
The park lists fishing, camping, hiking, birdwatching, and seasonal boating. Boat rentals and swimming facilities are seasonal services; confirm their operation before making them the reason for your visit. Fishing requires the appropriate West Virginia license.
Choosing a walk
The park’s trail guide lists Devil’s Creek Trail as an easy 0.6-mile down-and-back walk beginning in the lower campground. Grouse Knoll is listed as moderate at 0.9 miles. Diamond Hollow is 1.3 miles with uphill and downhill stretches; Roxalia Springs is a more demanding 2.3-mile loop. These are the park’s descriptions, not independent measurements. Use its map to understand connections rather than adding distances without checking the route.
Camping and picnics
The official camping page describes tent and trailer camping, picnic tables, fire rings, drinking water, a dump station, and a central bathhouse. Reserve the campsite type you need and confirm the season and hookup details directly. For a group gathering, ask the park about picnic shelter availability.
Our suggested lake-day plan
Pick one main activity first. If walking is the priority, choose a trail that fits your group, then make lunch a flexible picnic break. If you are camping, leave time to check in and settle before adding an outing. If a boat rental or pool visit matters most, verify the seasonal schedule before choosing a date.
Questions to ask before arriving
Ask about current facility openings, accessible parking and restroom routes, the surface between parking and your picnic area, and whether your intended activity needs advance booking. A trail labeled easy does not establish wheelchair access. Save the park’s phone number and map before leaving your lodging.
Pair it with Union
Make Union your meal or shopping stop before or after the park, subject to business hours. Keep the day flexible instead of adding several historic sites to an already full outdoor plan.
Sources
Researched October 27, 2026 from WV State Parks activities, its trail guide, and camping information. Check the official pages for current conditions.
